West Lindsey’s economy could grow by over a £100 million for the next 40 years, according to a new report.
The district is set to benefit significantly from the UK’s first prototype fusion energy power plant, with new research predicting long-term economic growth, job creation, and investment for the district.
The ambitious project – Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production, known as STEP – is being led by UK Industrial Fusion Solutions Ltd (UKIFS) part of the UK Atomic Energy Authority group (UKAEA).
Due to be built by 2040, it aims to revolutionise the way energy is generated thanks to cutting-edge fusion technology. Alongside the fusion facility, a skills centre and business park are also planned, positioning the region as a leader in clean energy innovation.
A newly commissioned economic impact assessment reveals that STEP will bring substantial benefits to West Lindsey which includes:
• An annual average of 605 construction jobs and construction will contribute £48 million to the local economy each year.
• An annual average of 724 high-skilled jobs and operations will boost the district’s economy by £55 million each year.
The report covers a timeframe of more than 45 years, from when planning began in 2019, through to 2065, however the majority of these benefits are expected to be from 2030 onwards.
The economic impact assessment was commissioned by Nottinghamshire County Council, in collaboration with West Lindsey District Council, Bassetlaw District Council, and Lincolnshire County Council. It has also been funded in part by the UKAEA.
Sally Grindrod-Smith, West Lindsey District Council’s Director of Planning, Regeneration and Communities said that this project represents a transformative opportunity for Gainsborough and the region.
She said: “We are delighted that this economic impact assessment confirms that West Lindsey will benefit from substantial local economic growth, the creation of thousands of skilled jobs and significant investment in infrastructure and the local supply chain for generations to come.
“STEP is a world-class initiative and will not only position our area at the forefront of clean energy innovation but also ensure long-term prosperity and sustainability for our community.”
The regional and long-term economic benefits across the East Midlands STEP is expected to create include:
• 2,976 jobs per year during construction, generating an annual economic boost of £236 million.
• 6,440 operational jobs, adding £489 million per year to the regional economy.
Paul Methven, CEO of UK Industrial Fusion Solutions Ltd (UKIFS), which leads the project, welcomed the findings.
He said: “This is the first examination of the positive economic impacts of the STEP programme across the region and beyond. It gives a fascinating insight into the potential for STEP to deliver direct economic and social benefits and stimulate much wider opportunities across many sectors.”
The in-depth report, produced by economic and finance specialists, Amion Consulting, models economic benefits spanning over 45 years, from the project’s inception in 2019 through to at least 2065.
It highlights not only direct job creation but also increased opportunities for local businesses and supply chains, as well as higher disposable incomes due to well-paid jobs in the region.
West Lindsey to see multi-million-pound boost from STEP project
Progress continues for new South Holland Health and Wellbeing Hub
Work on the new South Holland Health and Wellbeing Hub continues to progress, with a series of key milestones taking place over the coming months as the project moves towards construction.
Following the granting of planning permission earlier this year, site surveying and preparation works at the Castle Sports Centre are due to begin in early May to prepare the site for development, with further early external works then due to get underway following the formal appointment of a contractor.
Starting with external works will minimise the length of disruption to the existing Centre’s users as much as possible, keeping the facilities available over much of the summer months. Closure of the dry side is now expected to be in late August to allow the main construction works to begin, with the swimming pool facilities remaining open throughout.
Temporary fitness suite and group exercise facilities will be available from this point at the Spalding Campus of Boston College on Red Lion Street, along with South Holland District Council arranging temporary facilities for indoor bowls activity to continue in Long Sutton.
These plans would target the completion of construction in late 2026, with the new combined centre opening to the public in January 2027.
The project, which is receiving £20 million of UK Government funding alongside further investment from South Holland District Council, will address health and wellbeing through the provision of improved sport, recreation and leisure facilities, alongside new health and wellbeing services and facilities for residents.
This phase of works will include the creation of a single building containing two new swimming pools, village changing facilities, multi-sport hall, fitness suite, cycle and group exercise studios, health and wellbeing consultation rooms, children’s adventure play area and updated reception and servery areas.
Around the rest of the site, it will see the creation of a new outdoor 3G pitch, park run circuit, community garden, running loop, additional cycling provision and improved car parking with electric vehicle charging points, along with necessary remedial works to the bowls hall.
Councillor Gary Taylor, South Holland District Council’s project sponsor, said: “It is fantastic to see this transformational project taking shape, bringing high-quality leisure, exercise, sport and wellbeing facilities to South Holland and bucking the national trend.
“With works beginning soon, we are taking a major step forward in delivering something that will benefit the whole community for generations to come, and I can’t wait to see construction taking place. We will keep residents informed of the progress made and will share more updates as we move towards construction and completion of this brilliant new centre.”
Lincolnshire Housing Partnership to invest £10m in energy-efficiency upgrades to homes
Lincolnshire Housing Partnership (LHP) is set to deliver energy-saving upgrades to over 600 homes across Grimsby, Cleethorpes, and Boston after securing £5 million through the government’s Warm Homes: Social Housing Fund Wave 3 grant.
LHP will match this funding with an additional £5 million, bringing the total investment to £10 million. This will be used to install energy-saving measures such as solar panels, improved insulation, and new heating systems.
With these upgrades, LHP aims to lower customers’ energy bills, reduce carbon emissions, and improve the overall comfort of their homes.
Charlotte Johnson, Executive Director of Property at LHP, said: “Securing this funding is a significant step forward in our commitment to creating warmer, more energy-efficient homes for our customers.
“Whether it’s through improved insulation or better heating systems, these upgrades will not only help our customers cut their energy costs but also reduce the overall carbon footprint of our communities – making sure our homes are fit for the future.”
Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/Jo Panuwat D
Daughter walks for Lincolnshire hospitals in memory of her father
A daughter is thanking hospital staff for her dad’s care by taking part in a charity fundraising walk in his memory.
Kelly Hume, from Wragby, has signed up to the 10-mile Wolds Walk to raise funds and say thank you for the care the whole family received after her dad, Kevin, was rushed to Lincoln County Hospital in October 2024 suffering from sepsis.
Kelly has nothing but praise for the medical team that looked after her dad. She said: “He was starting to respond to treatment, but unfortunately, he caught pneumonia. Due to other underlying conditions, dad worsened and 12 days later he lost his fight and devastatingly he passed away. He fought a hard and painful battle, and the medical teams were with him all the way fighting that battle with him.
“The care he received and the support myself and my mum received from everyone at Carlton Coleby Ward was so comforting and very welcomed at such a terrible time, my world literally broke into pieces and my heart shattered.”
Kelly and her mum were given two beautiful handmade hearts by the ward staff just after Kevin passed away along with his handprints.
Two weeks later, Kelly, was rushed by ambulance back to the same hospital. As a diabetic, her body was struggling to cope with her condition, as well as trying to cope with the devastating heartbreak from losing her dad.
Kelly has decided to take on the Wolds Walk 2025 organised by the United Lincolnshire Hospitals Charity to give something back to the medical teams for being there when her family needed them.
Taking place on Saturday 17 May, the 10-mile hike winds its way past ancient woodlands, hilltop farmlands and picture postcard villages before joining The Viking Way to climb to the top of The Wolds with its spectacular views of Lincolnshire.
Charity Manager, Ben Petts, expressed his gratitude and said: “It is because of support from Kelly and others who are taking on the Wolds Walk that the charity is able to fund the extras that cannot be provided by the NHS alone.”
Kelly sums up what completing the walk will mean to her: “At the end, I will look up to the sky knowing Dad is with me in spirit and I know I will feel a personal accomplishment as well as helping our amazing medical teams and everyone who gives care to us every day of our lives within the United Lincolnshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust.”
More details on how you can join the Charity Wolds Walk can be found on their website.
Norwood Park welcomes spring arrival: Highland calf Daisy joins the estate’s beloved herd
This week Norwood Park is celebrating the birth of their newest Highland Cow, who has been named Daisy. Daisy joins the estate’s cherished herd of Highland cattle, becoming the eighth member alongside Linus, Titus, Monica I, Monica II, Molly, Maggie, and Maximus.
The herd plays an integral role in maintaining the estate’s rich landscape, grazing across areas of the estate’s over 100 acres to help control vegetation growth, manage weeds and invasive species, and improve soil health.
Unlike traditional livestock herds, these majestic animals are neither farmed nor milked but are instead a treasured part of Norwood Park’s ecological management strategy.
The arrival of Daisy is particularly special as she is the first Highland calf to be born on the estate. Estate Manager Rick Betts shared: “It’s been a huge relief for the team that Daisy’s birth has been a smooth one, as this is the first time that we’ve had a member of the herd give birth on the estate. We’ve headed down to top up the hay and ensure that Daisy has latched and is walking, which has been really rewarding to see.”
Daisy’s arrival is even more remarkable as she made her entrance nearly three and a half weeks before her expected due date, making her early arrival a fitting celebration of the changing seasons. Thankfully, both mother and baby are doing well, with Daisy already taking her first steps and feeding successfully.
Visitors to the estate will soon have the opportunity to catch a glimpse of the newest Highland calf at Norwood Park’s upcoming public events and open days, though the Norwood team ask that visitors maintain a safe distance and admire these creatures from afar. Those looking to experience the beauty of the estate and its beloved herd firsthand should keep an eye on Norwood Park’s event calendar for future opportunities with public access.
Speaking on the significance of the occasion, Sir John Starkey remarked: “Welcoming Daisy to the herd is a wonderful way to celebrate the arrival of spring here at Norwood Park. I’m continually in awe of these majestic animals and it brings me great pleasure to see them thriving on the estate.”
The Highland cattle at Norwood Park are not just a beautiful sight to behold but also play a role in the estate’s ongoing journey towards a natural, sustainable and organic destination. The herd helps to naturally maintain the land, reducing the need for herbicides and can be seen alongside the estate’s apple orchards, which are currently awaiting organic certification.
Their grazing habits allow for a more sustainable approach to land management, reinforcing Norwood Park’s commitment to conservation and responsible stewardship of the countryside.
For details on upcoming events where visitors may be able to catch a glimpse of Norwood Park’s Highland cattle, please visit the estate’s website at https://www.norwoodpark.co.uk/whatson.
Revesby Country Fair offers £1,000 to young people working in the countryside
The organisers of Revesby Country Fair, a popular Lincolnshire family day out, are offering grants of up to £1,000 to support young people living and working in the region.
The Revesby Rural Activities Fund, which has doubled from £500 last year, is available for people up to the age of 25 living in Lincolnshire.
The grants aim to give young people the chance to participate in rural activities including traditional skills and crafts, game-keeping and horticulture. The funding can be used to pay for travel to rural activities, driving and tractor licenses, towing courses and IT costs – among many other expenses.
John Roe, Chairman of Revesby Country Fair, said: “We’re thrilled to be able to increase our bursary offering for young people across Lincolnshire and support them in their early careers. Growing up and starting work in a rural area can be difficult, but we need to do all we can to encourage the next generation of rural and agricultural workers.
“Revesby Country Fair is all about celebrating life in the Lincolnshire countryside so we’re also actively supporting the next generation who are making a living here.
“The Rural Activities Fund is open to all types of applications and we will consider any rurally-based activities, so please get in touch if you’d like to apply.”
Archie Joynes is a past recipient of the bursary and he is now pursuing a career as a farrier. He said: “I’m so grateful for the grant I received – I’ve always wanted to be a farrier and it helped me a great deal, enabling me to buy a portable forge to practise my metalwork skills.
“I enjoy living in a rural area, but it does bring some problems when finding work, so it is great that there is a fund to help people such as myself.”
To find out more about the Revesby Rural Activities Fund and submit an application, visit www.revesbycountryfair.co.uk/revesby-rural-activities-fund/
The Revesby Rural Activities Fund is supported by ticket sales from Revesby Country Fair which will take place this year on Sunday 3rd August.
Following the success of the 2024 fair, trade stand applications and general public tickets are now live for this year’s show.
To apply for a trade stand at the 2025 show, visit www.revesbycountryfair.co.uk/trade-stands/.
To purchase general public tickets for the 2025 show, visit www.revesbycountryfair.co.uk/buy-tickets-online/.
Lincolnshire County Council funds advice sessions for farmers
Lincolnshire County Council is funding advice sessions for county farmers in the light of a series of government policies that have affected the sector.
In December the council allocated an extra £50,000 to provide additional finance advisory support for farming businesses to plan for the future.
Those interested in either impartial one-to-one advice, or taking part in a group workshop can now express an interest. The sessions will be delivered as part of the Lincolnshire Farm Support Programme.
Cllr Martin Hill, leader of Lincolnshire County Council, said: “Farming is the heart and soul of Lincolnshire and times have never been tougher for those working in agriculture. We allocated this funding to support all of those struggling with a series of national government policy decisions that have potentially disastrous consequences for farmers.
“We must protect Lincolnshire’s countryside and agricultural way of life, which is clearly under attack, including from large-scale infrastructure projects like solar farms and pylons. This is not just a matter of local livelihoods, but our nation’s food security.
“As well as this direct support straight away, we will also be hosting a Food and Farming Conference later this year to support our farmers, and their future in this county.”
The council will be working with other local and regional organisations that offer support to the farming sector to deliver this conference.
Cllr Colin Davie, executive councillor for economy, environment and planning at the county council, said: “Recent announcements around national living wage, National Insurance increases and inheritance tax measures for farmers have resulted in increased concerns for farm owners around their ability to maintain viable businesses.
“In addition, the government has suddenly closed the Sustainable Farming Initative to new applications – a scheme that provided a guaranteed income to farmers for environmental land management.
“The impartial advice sessions we are funding include business planning and strategy, managing cashflow, diversification and succession planning. I hope as many farming businesses as possible take up this offer as we help them through the most challenging of times.”
Interested farming businesses can complete the Business Lincolnshire enquiry form available on www.businesslincolnshire.com/enquiry or email businesslincolnshire@lincolnshire.gov.uk.
Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/Springfield Gallery Details of multi-million pound government funding for Skegness released
Details of multi-million pound government funding previously revealed for Skegness have been released. The Plan for Neighbourhoods was announced by the government at the beginning of March and will see Skegness receive up to £20 million of funding and support over the next ten years.
The details of the Plan for Neighbourhoods comes after the government’s confirmation in the October budget that the previously announced Long Term Plan for towns funding would be retained and reformed into a new regeneration programme.
The Plan for Neighbourhoods focuses on three goals – thriving places, stronger communities, and taking back control – and areas will be driving forward their own priorities, with community engagement a crucial component of the programme.
In line with government requirements, a regeneration plan which sets out a vision for the funding and a four year investment plan will be developed in the coming months. At the heart of this work will be community feedback and involvement. The funding for programme delivery will begin from April 2026.
Chris Baron, Chair, Connected Coast, said: “It is great to have details of the programme and the priorities for investment confirmed, allowing us to move forward collaboratively to create a vision and plan for Skegness.
“We have been carrying out consultation and engagement since last summer to inform this new government funding, and we will continue to work with local people in the coming months and years so that together we can focus this funding to make a long-term impact.
“This is another exciting opportunity for Skegness which will allow us to maximise the town’s potential, and build on the significant investment and transformational projects that are already being delivered.”
Paul McCooey, Chair, Connected Coast’s Skegness Sub-Group, added: “We have been awaiting further steer on this funding and now that the details have been announced, we can get to work with our communities, partners, and stakeholders to shape a plan for investment.
“In Skegness, we have already seen what can be achieved through partnership working through the Town Deal projects, as exemplified by projects such as the Skegness Learning Campus which is set to be an economic game changer for our area.
“Now, we can bring even more improvements to the town to benefit more people long into the future.”
Councillor Craig Leyland, Leader, East Lindsey District Council, said: “Now the priorities for investment have been confirmed, we can progress with our partners in ensuring this funding has a long-term impact for residents and businesses in Skegness.
“East Lindsey District Council has a proven track record of delivering investments with partners that make a difference to people’s lives and opportunities. This funding enables us to build on that even further and now work can continue in shaping this scheme that delivers what our community wants and needs.”
Boston secures funding for VE and VJ celebrations
Boston Borough Council has received £10,000 from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) to support the 80th anniversaries of Victory in Europe (VE) and Victory over Japan (VJ) commemorations.
This significant milestone marks the end of the Second World War and honours the sacrifices made by the wartime generation.
These events will provide an opportunity to come together, listen to stories, and reflect on the significance of the Allied victory.
With the funds, the Borough Council will buy flags for school children, bunting for the town centre and parish councils, and a large flag for each parish council. These decorations will fill the streets as communities come together to celebrate and remember.
The project aims to support the parishes within the Borough and town centre and planned street parties in commemorating these historic events.
Councillor Dale Broughton, Boston Borough Council’s Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Town Centre, said: “I look forward to seeing our town centre and local parishes decorated in brand new, vibrant bunting for the celebration of VE Day and VJ Day 80th anniversaries.
“We are very grateful to UKSPF, as this funding allows us to create a community atmosphere that honours the sacrifices of the wartime generation and brings people together in celebration.”
Councillor Emma Cresswell, Boston Borough Council’s Portfolio Holder for Communities, said: “These celebrations are a wonderful opportunity for our community to come together and reflect on what happened 80 years ago.
“By providing flags and bunting for schools and parishes, we aim to foster a sense of pride, to remember the legacy of those who fought for our freedom.”
Art & design students create lights for Sprites and Spirits at Sundown event
Magical lights, street theatre and entertainment are coming to Lincoln Arboretum this month and Lincoln College’s Art & Design students have been creating an amazing installation to go with it!
More than 40 Level 3 Art and Design students studying at the College’s Christs Hospital Terrace (CHT) campus have worked together with an art company, Lumo, to create a series of water lily inspired lanterns.
Lincoln College Art & Design Lecturer, Shelley Hawley, said: “These lanterns have come about from a project that Lumo approached us about recently and we’re so glad they did. We had around 45 students all creating them from material that they provided, and it was a really rewarding workshop. The lanterns are made from willow and tissue paper but are also lit up with multi-coloured lights that can be controlled remotely.
“They will be used to light up the lake at the city’s arboretum as part of an event called Sprites and Spirits at Sundown, taking place on Saturday 28th March from 6pm to 8pm. The hours spent creating these will count towards the students’ work experience time and there’s been a possibility of getting some students more voluntary work as a result which is fantastic news.”
Lindsay Cameron Johnson said: “Local Landscapes & Hidden Histories is a three-year, community interest project which is made possible with funding from the National Lottery Heritage fund.
“The project is a place-based heritage project, which is co-produced with communities, individuals, and organisations across the city.
“The project’s key objective is to connect local people to the heritage our parks and open spaces represent. We do this by delivering a meaningful programme of activities and initiatives which connect local park users and underrepresented groups to heritage.
“We are extremely excited to be holding the Sprites and Spirits at Sundown event at Lincoln Arboretum, the event pays homage to the parks’ original opening in 1872 which really was a grand affair! The opening ceremony was attended by 25,000 people.
“Attractions included brass band recitals, Professor Renzo’s Performing Dogs and Mr Emmanuel Jackson, the Midland aeronaut, in his new balloon.
“The event will feature fun performances by Rhubarb Theatre – for example, the ghost of Edward Milner who designed the park layout, a prominent landscape designer and assistant to Joseph Paxton.
“At 7pm there will be a parade with lanterns designed and created by LUMO Workshop who have worked closely with local community groups, including Lincoln College of Art and Monks Abbey Primary School, to create an array of lanterns which acknowledge the opening of the Arboretum.”
Creative Director at Lumo Workshop, Nadya Monfrinoli, said: “It has been a privilege to work with Level 3 Art and Design students at Lincoln College to create a sculptural installation for the Arboretum and to offer them the opportunity to exhibit in an outdoor public space. We were impressed with the students’ enthusiasm, and we can’t wait for their beautiful work to be seen by everyone on the night.”
